Most mystery shopping companies will ask you to provide a writing sample as part of the application process. The writing sample is important because it gives them a lot of information about your abilities.
The obvious thing they get from a writing sample is that they can see if you have a good command of the language. Mystery shoppers need very good spelling, grammar and punctuation skills. They need to be able to construct sentences that make sense and communicate ideas clearly. Your writing sample lets them know if you have the writing skills they are looking for.
But there is something else they get from your writing sample. It shows your mindset and skills as a mystery shopper.
For example, if your writing sample is full of opinion and criticism, it does not show you in the best light. Keep your writing sample objective. Tell what happened, but do so without the drama. Don’t say something such as, “This was the worst customer service I have ever seen!!!!”
Tell the story of what happened during a recent customer experience. What happened when you entered? How long before someone greeted you? What did they say? How did they help you? Did they ask questions about your needs? Did they suggest appropriate products? Did they thank you? Samples are typically short, but give them enough that they get a feel for what happened during your visit.
Here is an example of a writing sample that is about 200 words. DO NOT COPY AND USE THIS SAMPLE AS YOUR OWN. Your writing sample should reflect a recent customer service experience of yours. This sample is presented as a suggestion of the types of things you might include in your sample.
Jason was behind the counter when I entered. He smiled and greeted me immediately, then asked how he could help me.
I told him I had seen an item on their website and wanted to know if they carried it in the store. He took me to the item, removed one from the shelf and handed it to me. He asked, “Do you just want the one?” Jason also pointed out related items nearby.
Jason asked if he could help me find anything else. I said no, and that I just wanted to browse for a few minutes. He told me to let him know if I needed any help, then went back to the counter.
The store was neatly arranged and well lit. All of the merchandise was clearly priced.
When I was ready to check out, Jason rang up my order. He asked if I was a member of their loyalty program. When I said no he explained the benefits and said that it was free to join.
Jason rang up my purchase quickly and correctly. He asked if I wanted my receipt in the bag. When he handed the bag to me, Jason thanked me and asked me to return.”
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